First and foremost this cycling vacation at the Chateau de Pitray is about riding your bike through the fantastic Dordogne countryside. Imagine pedaling away on small picturesque roads with little to no traffic, imagine a rolling countryside with vineyards, fields and woods, imagine riding through old villages with buildings that date back hundreds of years. I have been riding in this area every summer since 1997, and I know the region like the back of my hand. It is without a doubt a paradise for cyclists. The fact that the Tour de France is such a success is in large part due to beautiful regions like the southwest.

One of the unlimited number of small roads zigzagging through the countryside in Southwest France.

The goal of this bike vacation is to leave you grinning from ear to ear. Therefore, each day you will ride a different loop that begins and ends at the Chateau de Pitray. The rides will be guided by me, Allan Reeves. If you prefer to opt out of the daily ride you can ride on your own by using a map or Garmin computer. The roads are very well marked, and with some guidance from me and the use of a map you can make your way around easily and enjoyably. If you bring a Garmin computer then I can download a custom route, and you can follow it at your own pace.

The length and tempo of the rides depends on the overall profile of the group. However, the basics are as follows: you should be physically capable to ride for 2 to 3 hours if you are riding with the group. You should also be capable of handling various ride tempos of 14 to 20 mph. Typically speaking the rides won't exceed distances of 50 miles, unless the group is "hardcore" and wants to do more. The terrain consists of small rolling hills so you should also be capable of handling hilly terrain. Lastly, this is your vacation so if you want to ride on your own or with another friend you are more than welcome to do so. Again, I will provide you with all the "know-how" to get around comfortably and enjoy yourself thoroughly.